The One Who Plants
"So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow." 1 Corinthians 3:7
When Paul wrote this, members of the church were arguing over ranking according to who was taught by whom. Some thought they were better than others because Paul brought them to the Lord. Others bragged about being taught by Apollos, a super charismatic speaker. Paul goes on to say that the foundation is what counts - a firm foundation of Jesus Christ.
This reminds me of a tele evangelist from long ago - he would "humbly" brag about how many "came to the altar" after his sermons. I guess he never read this verse. But he planted the seed, maybe even watered a bit, but all the glory and credit goes to God. And then the angels throw a party!
This verse also reveals that we are co-workers with God! That's pretty exciting. Something (the seed, which is Christ) has to be planted. It must be watered (by the living water - through the Holy Spirit). And then God makes it grow. We cannot do anything of this alone - every step has to be in union with Him. And we may not see the results in this world, but we have to trust that the growth is happening.
God said, "My words leave My mouth, and they don't come back without results. My words make the things happen that I want to happen. They succeed in doing what I send them to do." Jesus Christ is God's Word.
Paul closes with this compassionate and comforting verse - a big huge hug: "you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God."
Have a blessed day!
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